21 Best places to spend New Years in Europe (2024/2025)

Are you ready to trade the usual New Year’s Eve parties at home for something unforgettable? Imagine celebrating in Europe, where every destination offers a magical blend of romance, charm, and adventure. Whether it’s strolling through festive markets with your partner or counting down to midnight in a lively city square, New Year’s Eve in Europe promises memories you’ll treasure forever.

Picture this: snowflakes drifting around you as you sip mulled wine or champagne, the air buzzing with the melody of different languages. The countdown begins (10, 9, 8…), and as the clock strikes midnight, cheers erupt (4, 3, 2…), and your European adventure officially starts with a “Happy New Year!”

In this guide, I’ll share the best destinations in Europe for every kind of celebration—romantic escapes, vibrant countdown parties, and cozy winter retreats. Drawing from my own experiences dancing a Highland Fling in Inverness, celebrating with thousands on Edinburgh’s Princes Street, and savoring the magic of Berlin’s Christmas markets, I’ll show you how to make your holiday unforgettable.

So, where will you and your partner ring in the New Year? Let’s explore the top European destinations and tips to make this celebration your best yet.

1. Amsterdam, Holland

Natasha, Great Ocean Road Collective

Imagine strolling hand in hand along Amsterdam’s enchanting canals, their waters shimmering with the reflections of festive lights.

The air is crisp, the sound of laughter and music fills the cobblestone streets, and you can’t help but feel the magic of the city as it comes alive to welcome the New Year.

The Dutch capital offers one of Europe’s most unforgettable New Year’s Eve experiences.

During this time, Amsterdam is illuminated by the dazzling Amsterdam Light Festival, where international artists create mesmerising installations that line the canals. It’s a sight you and your partner will treasure forever.

Start the evening by joining locals in lively spots like Dam Square, Leidseplein, Nieuwmarkt, and Rembrandtplein.

At Dam Square, soak up the energy of the crowd while enjoying live music and beer tents.

For a more relaxed vibe, opt for a candlelit canal cruise, where you can sip champagne as fireworks light up the night sky.

Of course, no Dutch New Year’s celebration would be complete without indulging in local traditions.

Treat yourselves to oliebollen, warm, powdered sugar-dusted doughnuts that pair perfectly with a glass of champagne. These sweet bites are a must-try, and their comforting aroma fills the air from nearby stands.

For an extra touch of excitement, join the locals in buying an oudejaarslot, a special New Year’s Eve lottery ticket with the year’s largest prize.

Who knows? You might start 2025 as a millionaire!

Whether you’re dancing at the silent disco at HUSH or marvelling at the city’s festive atmosphere, Amsterdam is the perfect mix of lively celebration and intimate romance for couples looking to make their New Year’s Eve unforgettable.

2. Berlin, Germany

Sydney, A World in Reach

As fireworks cascade over Brandenburg Gate and the city pulses with energy, Berlin welcomes the new year like no other.

Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant nightlife or its rich traditions, Berlin offers endless ways to celebrate Silvester, the German name for New Year’s Eve.

Start your day by exploring some of Berlin’s iconic landmarks, such as Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie, or the art-lined East Side Gallery. But be sure to rest up—Berlin truly comes alive at night.

For a more romantic and intimate evening, book tickets to the Berlin Philharmonic’s New Year’s Eve Concert.

The elegance of the music and the venue’s timeless charm make it a perfect way for couples to celebrate.

Follow it up with dinner at a cozy restaurant in the trendy Mitte district, where candlelit tables and gourmet cuisine set the mood for a memorable night.

If you’re in the mood to party, Berlin’s legendary club scene has you covered. Reserve a spot at one of the city’s famous clubs, where open bars, all-night dancing, and cutting-edge DJs create a high-energy experience.

For something truly iconic, join the massive street party at Brandenburg Gate. Here, hundreds of thousands gather to celebrate with live music, food stalls, and a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the city.

No matter how you choose to spend the night, one tradition you shouldn’t miss is the Berliner donut.

These delicious, jelly-filled treats are a must-have at midnight, symbolising good luck for the year ahead. Pair one with champagne as you toast to new beginnings.

For a quieter yet equally enchanting experience, consider heading to Oberbaum Bridge or Tempelhofer Feld to watch the fireworks in a less crowded setting.

These spots offer sweeping views of the city’s skyline, perfect for couples looking to enjoy a moment of reflection as they welcome the new year together.

Berlin’s dynamic mix of history, culture, and celebration ensures that your New Year’s Eve will be nothing short of extraordinary.

3. Brussels, Belgium

Annelies, Travelers and Dreamers

If you’re looking for a great place in Europe to spend New Year’s Eve, Brussels is definitely worth considering!

As the capital of Belgium, Brussels is famous for Belgian beers, chocolate and fries, street art and unique monuments like the Atomium and Manneke Pis.

There are a bunch of things to do on New Year’s Eve so you probably will have trouble picking just one thing!

During the day, make your way to Brussels’ famous Christmas market. Here you can find over 200 chalets selling gluhwein, fries, chocolate, and more to satisfy your tastebuds.

Take a ride on the Ferris wheel or feel like a kid again while ice skating on a huge ice rink at Place de Brouckère. Follow Plaisirs d’hiver for the most up-to-date information.

In the evening there are options abound for every mood and music style. Do you fancy a multiple-course meal at a traditional Belgian restaurant? Check out La fin de siècle, Viva M’boma or la porteuse d’eau to enjoy typical Belgian dishes like stoemp, Flemish carbonades or vol-au-vent.

Vegan or vegetarian? No problem. There are many great plant-based restaurants in Brussels to enjoy a cruelty-free meal on NYE like Humus & Hortense, for example, which is awarded a green Michelin star.

Are you a fan of major indoor events? Head to Paleis 12 for FUCKNYE festival, a large indoor event presenting you the best DJs from the hip-hop, rap, hardcore, trance, and techno scene.

If you like to explore multiple locations in Brussels on New Year’s Eve, the best thing you can do is to buy the Happy Brussels Party Pass.

This party pass gives you access to numerous small clubs and party locations in the city, offering music ranging from house and techno to disco and even jazz.

For a more intimate vibe, you can opt to spend New Years’ Eve at La Grand Place, enjoying a festive vibe with a light show and beers and chocolate.

There are also many typical Belgian pubs in the city organizing small New Years’ Eve parties. The best ones are at Monk Café, Café Central, and Le Coq.

If you want to enjoy fireworks, the best place to spend the evening is at the Atomium.

Public transport in Brussels on New Year’s Eve is free so it is easy to get around a city and try multiple things.

A good hotel to spend New Years’ day, whether you have a hangover or not, is Jardin Secret. Not only are the rooms fantastic but they also offer wellness services and have a heated outside pool that is open during winter.

4. Dublin, Ireland

Mary, Be Right Back By Mary

One of the best things to do in Dublin in the winter is coming for the holidays and especially, New Year’s.

Dublin is a welcoming city with lots of historical sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, the Book of Kells and St Patrick’s Cathedral.

But it’s also a bustling city with welcoming locals who know how to party and spend fun evenings at the pubs!

When the holidays approach, pubs and locals really go all in and the city turns into a magical place where lots of events take place.

Spending New Year’s in Dublin is a special experience and one you’ll never forget! 

On New Year’s Eve, Dublin organises the New Year’s Festival which takes place over two days and attracts visitors from all over the world.

It is a countdown experience with events, music, and famous light shows topped up by the traditional fireworks!

Some of the main events are the Liffey Lights show, the Countdown Concert and the final fireworks which all take place at the beautiful Custom House, only a few minutes walk from Dublin’s famous Temple Bar District.

It is recommend to arrive early at the quays fill up with crowds hours in advance, visitors wanting the best spot to watch the show.

The Clayton Hotel is a great place to stay near Custom House for the festivities.

5. Edinburgh, Scotland

Amanda, AmandaWalkins.com

Edinburgh is definitely one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Europe. In fact, it’s one of the biggest NYE celebrations in the entire world!

Known locally as Hogmanay, New Year’s Eve was the most important wintertime celebration for about four centuries in Scotland.

Christmas didn’t become a public holiday until 1958, so — over the years — Hogmanay grew in importance as the primary time to gather with loved ones.

Traditions are important in Scotland, with various annual festivals honoring their roots in pagan, Viking, and Celtic festivities.

While Hogmanay celebrates the new calendar year, the Beltane Fire Festival in Edinburgh celebrates the start of spring, and Samhuinn marks the end of the harvest season around today’s Halloween.

Nowadays, the three-day epic Hogmanay celebration attracts visitors from all over the world. 

Events officially begin on 30 December with a torchlight procession through the streets of Edinburgh.

The procession is typically led by the Up Helly Aa Vikings from Shetland, so it’s an awesome event to watch, even if you don’t participate with a torch yourself.

On New Year’s Eve, you can partake in a wide variety of celebrations, from family-friendly daytime events to classy candlelit concerts to a more debaucherous street party spanning multiple blocks with various stages for live music all night long.

In all settings, you can expect fireworks on the hour starting at 9pm, with a massive show at midnight as folks break out into song with the old Scottish classic, Auld Lang Syne.

On New Year’s Day, head to nearby South Queensferry to watch the Loony Dook. More commonly called a “polar plunge” in other parts of the world, in Edinburgh, folks opt to dress up in costumes and leap into the frigid Firth of Forth to start the new year right.

It’s a sight to behold!

If you’re planning to partake in the Hogmanay celebrations, try to stay centrally in Edinburgh for easy access to all the main events.

New Town and Old Town are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you’ll find a variety of boutique hotels, Airbnbs, and even some international chains.

6. Frankfurt, Germany

Daniel and Ilona, Top Travel Sights

Frankfurt is one of the New Year’s Eve destinations in Europe. In this international city, you can find many themed parties that day.

Expats from all over the world celebrate the end of the year at masquerade balls or wild parties.

Those looking for a more relaxed evening will go to one of the many excellent restaurants to enjoy a delicious multi-course meal.

At midnight, head down to the river Main. From the pedestrian bridge Eiserner Steg you have a great view of the fireworks and the skyscrapers in the background.

Make sure to arrive early so you can stand in the front row!

If you are looking for a unique experience that includes a fantastic view of the fireworks, book a cruise on the river Main.

You will enjoy dinner on the boat before heading to the deck at midnight.

You can also watch people set off their own fireworks. Locals will flock to the streets, especially to Fressgasse, an area known for its many bars and restaurants.

With lots of explosions and colourful lights, people will then celebrate the beginning of the new year.

Besides setting off fireworks, Germans have a few more traditions they like to celebrate on New Year’s Eve – and you can experience all of them in Frankfurt.

Start your evening by watching Dinner for One. This black and white British short film is extremely popular in Germany, much more than in the UK.

You will find it playing on multiple TV channels throughout the evening.

Next, go to a bakery and buy a Kreppel. Germans will eat this doughnut-like pastry, which also goes by the names of Berliner, Krapfen or Pfannkuchen, on New Year’s Eve.

Some families will order lots of jam-filled Kreppel and one filled with mustard – and then wait to see who picks up the inedible one.

Happy New Year, or, as we say in German, Guten Rutsch!

7. Krakow, Poland

Ketki, Explore with Ecokats

Whether you want to party in a club, attend a music fest or spend the new year walking around in the main market square like the locals, then Krakow is one of the best places to spend new years in Europe.

The festive spirit is apparent with the entire city wearing lights, decorations and festive food stalls selling Polish goodies.

The best way to experience NYE in Krakow is to walk on the cobbled roads leading to the Krakow old town main market square ‘Rynek Główny’.

Known as one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe, this square is the city’s gravitational centre and come New Year’s, it is beaming with a festive glow. 

Purchase a mulled wine or hot chocolate and munch on Polish food such as pierogies, kielbasa, and pączki from the Christmas market set up in the square.

Since all the locals congregate here, there are many free entertainment programs like music concerts and performances by Polish artists and singers.

As the clock turns to midnight, the sky lights up with fireworks to mark the start of the new year.

In recent years, the fireworks have been a no-show due to the rising pollution problems and the administration has turned towards a more sustainable celebration – Confetti Poppers.

All in all, it is a grand celebration together and the Poles sure know how to ring in a new year.

Tip: The popular horse carriage rides are not available at midnight and especially not on New Year’s Eve because of the crowds.

8. Lagos, Portugal

Alya, The Algarve Family

Lagos, a beautiful beach town in southern Portugal is a great place to spend New Year’s Eve. It is a perfect combination of a New Year party destination and a beach holiday.

The town is well-known for its New Year’s fireworks. The Old Town and the Marina de Lagos are the best places to celebrate New Year.

Both areas have plenty of bars and restaurants with live music.

The Marina is a better place for watching fireworks. The stage where the concert takes place is usually set on Praca do Infante in the Old Town.

From the square, it’s just 50 m to the nearest beach where you can welcome New Year on the beach by watching fireworks.

Most bars and restaurants stay open through the night.

You can settle in one place or visit several establishments during the night. A New Year’s dinner at any restaurant should be booked in advance.

Lagos is a popular place to come for New Year’s Eve. It’s highly recommended to book accommodation, activities, and car long in advance.

All night concerts and fireworks are not the only New Year’s Eve activities in Lagos.

During the day you can do a boat or a kayak trip along the cliffs or visit the famous Benagil Cave.

In Lagos, you can combine a New Year’s celebration by escaping the cold with a surfing holiday. Even if you have never surfed before, learning a new thing is a great way to start a new year. 

For a party vibe, Boutique Taghostel is the best place to stay in Lagos on New Year’s Eve.

For a romantic stay, Lagos Avenida Hotel 400 m away from the Old Town is a perfect choice for you.

9. London, England

Anastasija, Parenthood4ever

London is one of the best cities for New Year’s Eve because there is something special for everyone.

First of all, there are lots of special events for kids and families in London starting from visiting Santa’s Grottos or meeting Santa at kids’ favorite places, such as Willows Farm or London Zoo.

One of the epic events in London is Winter Wonderland, which usually starts around the 20th of November and lasts until the first week of January in Hyde Park.

There is something for everyone, including markets, food and drink stalls, an ice rink, ice kingdom, circus shows, and a variety of rollercoasters.

London is famous for Winter Light Festivals to (in fact, this should be on your England Bucket List).

The tickets get sold out a couple of months before the event even takes place. One of the most popular Christmas Lights Festival is at Kew Gardens.

It offers a magical light trail throughout all gardens, including a glittering tunnel of bells, giant illuminated seed heads, and majestic trees wrapped in light.

Don’t get upset if you missed the slot, Winterfest at Wembley Park offers a light show too, and it is free of charge.

Christmas markets are not an exception. There are a couple of nice markets all around London, including central London where you can have fun, enjoy nice music, and hot drinks.

Of course, the world-famous New Year’s Eve firework display is a breath-taking must-see event that you can watch at the riverside, from one of the rooftops, or in comfort at home watching it on TV.

Finally, what is New Year without the party?

London is one of the best new years party in Europe, you will find New Years Eve parties for every taste in almost any club, bar, hotel, theaters and of course street in London.

10. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Lucile, Lucile Hr.com

Luxembourg may not be considered as one of the top destinations to visit to celebrate New Year’s Eve, but it can certainly offer a unique experience during the winter holiday.

If you want a less crowded New Year’s Eve in Europe, Luxembourg is a wonderful place to celebrate. Locals celebrate it mildly, with many of them getting out of the city to pursue skiing and beach somewhere else.

This doesn’t mean that there’s not a lot of fun in this underrated country.

Want to explore the city on New Year’s Eve or perhaps go on a mindful, meditative walk as you reflect on the past year?

Visit one of Luxembourg’s gems, Chemin de la Corniche, and be in awe as you see the majestic view of the illuminated city.

And of course, don’t miss out on the magical splendor of the Winter lights Festival, which runs late in November to the first week of January.

Go for ice skating in Place Guillaume II’s ice rink to have a fantastic time or perhaps, stay to watch concerts and chorales at the Christmas markets.

Luxembourg can also be a great place for the family on New Year’s Eve. There’s a lot of entertainment with the Cirque du Lux in Limpertsberg that the family will definitely enjoy.

Watch amazing acrobats do their stunts and be impressed by the colorful light displays during the show.

And yes, there are fireworks in Luxembourg on New Year’s Eve, and the best thing about it is that you can witness the magic from different beautiful viewpoints.

You can then book your stay in one of the many reputed hotels in Luxembourg, including Novotel Suites Luxembourg, Sofitel, and Le Place d’Armes Hotel.

They also host their own parties with music and alcohol to ring in the new year.

One thing you shouldn’t forget though: wear appropriate clothing since it can get really chilly at night.

11. Madrid, Spain

Paulina, Paulina on the road

Madrid, the central capital of Spain (which by the way is one of the best European countries to celebrate new year), is a city with vast, manicured parks and elegant boulevards.

The city is known for its rich collection of European art, food and incredible celebrations like the New Year’s, which makes it one of the best places to spend Christmas and new years.

There is a lot that this city has to offer including historical buildings, food markets and the royals. There are unique neighbourhoods, bustling nightlife, incredible skies and marvelous museums.

If one is thinking of spending New Year’s Eve and New Year in Madrid, they have made the best decision.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Madrid is a unique feeling as people get to see how the locals celebrate it their way.

One of the most famous traditions that visitors will experience is eating grapes at midnight, one for every gong.

The locals believe that doing this brings good luck and they enjoy following this tradition with their friends and family.

New Year in Madrid is way different from the celebrations in other parts of the world.

There are unique traditions, great get-togethers and family dinners that would give a one of a kind feeling.

This is why people should consider celebrating their New Year’s in this particular city.

The main meeting point is Puerta del Sol where people from everywhere around the city and the world meet up and eat grapes together as the bell rings 12.

Visitors have to make sure to arrive early as that is only how they can get to the square.

As soon as the clock strikes twelve, people begin to make their way to the city’s different nightclubs.

Pre-booking for New Year’s Eve club entrance is highly suggested due to the strong demand and increased pricing that occurs at the last minute.

New Year’s Eve in Madrid is marked with a special menu at some of the city’s most prominent restaurants.

Different from the traditions of most Spaniards, visitors can be one of the many tourists who choose to spend their New Year’s Eve in Madrid with a lavish lunch.

Enjoy lavish food in Madrid at the Hotel Palace, the city’s extravagant restaurant. Another option is to reserve a dinner table at NH Collection Madrid Gran Va, where visitors can take in the city’s stunning skyline view from its outstanding sky bar.

For a great stay, make a booking at Madrid Mariott Auditorium or Safestay Madrid. They are good family hotels with nice customer reviews.

12. Munich, Germany

Christina, Travel 2 Next

Germans love big celebrations and New Year’s Eve across Germany is one big Bavarian beer hall party. As Munich is home to Oktoberfest, there’s no better city in Germany to cheer in the New Year than here.

New Year’s Eve in Germany is known as “Silvester”, and in Munich, revellers are attracted to several locations including the most famous landmarks in Germany such as Old Town Square, Marienplatz, Olympic Park, and the English Garden.

The atmosphere is electric and soaking up the buzz from the crowd amidst these historic sites is a memorable way to celebrate the end of an old year and the beginning of a new one.  

Some of the iconic places to see the fireworks in Munich are at Schwanthalerhöhe, as close as you can to the foot of the Bavaria statue, or at the Friedensengel statue.

If you’d prefer a view of the fireworks going off above the skyline Olympiaberg (Olympic Mountain) is the place to be.

Partygoers should head for the winter festival of Tollwood on the Theresienwiese and celebrate over dinner while grooving to cool beats of live bands and DJ tracks.

Another party worth going to is at Muffatwerk, which is a converted waterworks and a cool spot to party on to the wee hours.

13. Paris, France

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in Europe, with one of the most iconic landmarks, the Eiffel. So it is no surprise that Paris as a huge variety of parties and Entertainment to ring in the New Year in Europe.

If you want to visit the best places in Europe for New Year’s Eve, look no further than Paris. The Champs-Elysess looks amazing as thousands of tourists and locals alike flock to the famous street to see the fireworks above Paris.

For a truly unique New Years Eve experience, enjoy champagne aboard river cruise down the Seine River with the best views of the Eiffel Tower as the fire works explode.

If you would prefer to experience New Years Eve in Paris with a gorgeous view of the Eiffel Tower but without the fuss of other people, check into one of the best hotels in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower….. just make sure you book early!!

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

Paula, Paula Pins the Planet

If you are planning to spend new year in Europe, you should add Reykjavik on top of your Iceland itinerary bucket list.  

An interesting fact about Iceland is that fireworks are banned majority of the year in Iceland, however fireworks are legal for the week around New Year’s Eve as the profits benefit the Icelandic Association for Search and Rescue, which is an independent organization of volunteers who man search and rescue missions across Iceland. 

One of the most popular ways to celebrate new year is to experiencing the bonfires in Reykjavik.

They are a unique Icelandic tradition that make celebrating New Year’s Eve in Iceland truly special. 

You can find bonfire location at the local newspaper, and join local for the festive time. The neighbourhood at Vesturbær along the beach is a great option for a fun new year Eve celebration. 

At midnight on New Year’s Eve, Reykjavik becomes a firework war zone amidst with smiles and champagne.

Afterwards, most people, especially tourists, will descend upon the downtown area for going to the bars and clubs.

Reykjavik is full of great bars and clubs although be prepare for the high prices for the cocktails! 

One of the best places to stay in Reykjavik is the Freyja Guesthouse and Suites as they are situated close to the Hallgrimskirkja church. 

15. Seville, Spain

Linn, Brainy Backpackers

Seville is an amazing city to celebrate New Years Eve in Europe. While this is usually a family night for most locals, where they have a big dinner accompanied with cava before the clock turns 12 minutes to midnight.

The tradition says if you eat 12 grapes, one per second counting down to midnight, it brings you good luck. After midnight is when the young go out and party until dawn.

But not all Spanish sit inside for the countdown. The Plaza Nueva square is the perfect place to join the countdown.

It is always packed with people and a truly festive place to hang out, but don’t forget to get hold of your 12 grapes! There are also a lot of great parties in Seville for New Year’s Eve.

There are many things you can do in the city before and after the big night! Make sure you go back in history by visiting the Alcazaba, Cathedral, and La Giralda in the city center.

The Tower of Gold is neatly situated by the river where you can go on a river cruise, or even be more adventurous and go stand up paddle boarding.

The food market on the other side of the historic bridge, Puente de Triana, is great for lunch and while you’re in the Triana neighborhood why not enjoy a Flamenco show?

Another highlight you should not miss on your Seville itinerary is Plaza de España and the biggest park in the city, the Maria Louisa Park.

Seville is the perfect place to stay for a mini vacation or a shorter winter city break.

16. Tenerife, Spain

Alexandra, Tenerife-Is 

The Canary Island of Tenerife in Spain is always a fabulous New Year’s Eve option. There you can have a fun and delicious New Year on the beach!

If you want sunshine instead of snow for New Year’s Eve, Tenerife is the best place for you.

You can swap winter for summer, snow-covered asphalt for the beach with black sand, high-rise buildings for palm trees, and apartments for a beautiful house with flowering plants.  

Every corner of the island is special. There are picturesque beaches, like a postcard, there are completely wild and deserted places, gorges and rocks, forests and vineyards.

There are cosmic, scorched by eruptions landscapes, the so-called “Martian” landscapes.

The feeling of walking on the edge of a volcano’s lava, frozen millions of years ago, is a great gift to yourself for the New Year.

Walking among the dense greenery in the forest or sunbathing on the heated black sand, from any point, you will see the snow-capped top of the volcano.  

The Spanish know a lot about fun and delicious food, so the New Year in Tenerife will probably be the most colorful in your life.

Year after year, on New Year’s Eve, performers and musicians in carnival costumes take to the streets.

With songs, dances, and mock performances, the carnival moves toward the coast and ends with a large-scale fireworks display.

Fireworks are held in all major cities on the island. It’s popular to meet the New Year at the beach and then continue the party in a bar or a nightclub.

Besides the fireworks, Tenerife has another New Year’s tradition: eating 12 grapes to the clock’s beat while the clock counts down the last moments of the outgoing year.  

17. Valencia, Spain

Laura, Travelers Universe

Valencia is a beautiful city on the Mediterranean coast. It’s the birthplace of the famous Spanish paella and it one of the best cities to visit during new years.

While many beachgoers prefer Valencia in summer due to its miles upon miles of beautiful urban beaches, the truth is that Valencia is a great destination during the winter months as well.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Valencia to celebrate the end of the year (and the beginning of a new one)

The first thing you must know is that the biggest New Year’s Eve celebration in Valencia is a street party and it takes place right in the Town Hall square.

This is the heart of the city – an ample space where young and old like to gather to eat the 12 grapes for good luck and toast with cava (the Spanish version of champagne).

The Town Hall balcony becomes a stage for DJs and the music booms until around 3 am.

One thing to take into consideration if you’re planning to have dinner out for New Year’s Eve in Valencia is that most restaurants close soon after midnight or even before that.

This is why the Town Hall party is a great place to be if you want to start the year on party beats.

If you don’t want to walk, drive or take a taxi when the party finishes, the newly open Only You Hotel is right next to the Town Hall square.

18. Venice, Italy

Pamela, The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best places to spend New Year’s Eve in Europe is the beautiful city of Venice.

A mixture of breathtaking views, mouthwatering food, and an epic party make celebrating New Year’s Eve in Venice the experience of a lifetime. 

Since Venice is located in northern Italy, be sure to wear warm clothes when visiting.

The restaurants will be warm, but outside will be cold so be sure to dress in layers to be comfortable all night! 

Start the night with a delicious dinner, usually served between 8 and 9pm. For dinner with a view, try a dinner cruise around the city.

You’ll see key locations such as Rialto bridge and Saint Mark’s Square. 

The party and  “Love” celebration starts at 10:00 in the Piazza San Marco. Street performers, live music, and Bellini help to ring in the new year.

A few minutes before midnight, head to the waterfront for fireworks.

The fireworks illuminate the Venice skyline for a breathtaking show. 

The celebration continues all night and even into the next day. If you’re a brave traveler, you can join a polar plunge in the Adriatic sea on January 1st!

If you prefer a quieter start to the new year, you can see the annual new year’s eve concert at La Fenice Opera House.

There are shows on December 30, 31, and January 1st. 

No matter what you decide to do, you’ll be glad you celebrated New Year’s Eve in Venice.

19. Vienna, Austria

Kami, My Wanderlust

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities to visit in Europe and one of the best places to go for new years in Europe.

The whole city is celebrating with numerous events and you will find thousands of people joining the fun.

In the center, there are a few different scenes with various kinds of music so you can choose where to party according to your taste.

At midnight in front of the town hall, the pavement and streets change into the dance floor so the crowd can dance together to the Blue Danube waltz, the most typical Viennese classical song. Everyone is welcome to join and dance.

If you get hungry there are market stalls everywhere, serving snacks and mulled wine (you can purchase a memorial cup for a few Euros and get it refilled with drinks).

If the New Year’s Eve celebrations didn’t wear you out you should attend the world-famous Opera concert on the 1st of January, the ultimate Viennese NYE experience.

Just keep in mind that this is a very popular way to spend a New Year’s day in Vienna so tickets can get sold out quickly.

If you want to relax, you can go for a cup of coffee and the famous Sacher cake to one of the traditional coffeehouses in Vienna.

To get the best of spending the New Year’s Eve in Vienna it’s best to stay somewhere in the inner center or (to get a more affordable option) near one of the metro stations so you can be close to all the main attractions and activities.

One of the recommended places to stay is Superbude Wien Prater near the Messe-Prater metro station.

20. Inverness, Scotland

Welcoming 2011 in the enchanting city of Inverness was an extraordinary experience.

The night was sparked into life at the iconic Culloden House Hotel, where I had the incredible opportunity to be part of their New Year’s Eve team.

The grand Georgian building was aglow with festive charm; its exuberant atmosphere reflected the anticipation of a brand new year. The night was filled with cheerful banter, the clinking of glasses, and the soft, warm notes of laughter weaving themselves into the rich tapestry of the celebration.

As the countdown to midnight approached, I found myself in one of Inverness’s heartwarming local pubs.

All around me, folk were shedding the old year like an outgrown coat, eager to enter the new.

Then the bells tolled, heralding the arrival of 2011, and the whole pub erupted into a spirited rendition of the traditional Highland Fling.

The fling, a whirlwind of stomping feet, swinging kilts, and sparkling eyes, perfectly encapsulated the energetic and resilient spirit of the Highlands. As a highland dancer, how could I resist joining in? Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Inverness, it seems, is an unforgettable dance into the unknown.

21. Prague, Czech Republic

As the final page of 2012 turned, I found myself amidst the majestic, fairytale-like landscapes of Prague.

This city, steeped in history and crowned by castles, is the perfect backdrop for any New Year’s Eve celebration.

As dusk cloaked the city, a thousand twinkling lights set the Vltava River aglow, creating an ethereal reflection that danced harmoniously with the city’s vivacious spirit.

New Year’s Eve in Prague is nothing short of spectacular. Strolling through the Old Town Square, I was greeted by a vibrant cacophony of laughter and chatter.

The air was alive with anticipation and laced with the tantalizing scent of Trdelník, the traditional Czech pastry.

Prague’s night sky is a canvas on New Year’s Eve; the stroke of midnight sees it burst into a riot of colors, the fireworks echoing the city’s joyous welcome of the new year.

Standing on the iconic Charles Bridge with the Prague Castle illuminated in the background, I felt the city’s timeless beauty come alive.

The feeling was akin to being in a moving historical painting – the medieval structures, the gothic architecture, and the jubilant crowd around, all blending to create an unforgettable symphony. As a travel blogger, I can assert that welcoming a new year in Prague is a magical, once-in-a-lifetime experience that etches itself onto your heart, forever reminding you of its mesmerizing charm.

FAQs: Best place in Europe for New Years

WRAP UP: Best Places to Spend New Years Eve in Europe

Whether you this is your first trip to Europe for New Year or you’ve travelled to Europe a hundred times before, there are plenty of places for you to spend new Years Eve in Europe.

The hardest choice you are going to have is deciding which country and city you want to visit this New Years

Planning on spending the holiday period in Europe? Check out the Best Christmas Markets in Europe

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